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Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls Delight

Indulge in guilt-free Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls that offer a satisfying crunch and endless customization.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni A classic choice that holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
  • 3 tablespoons Butter Adds richness for an incredibly smooth cheese sauce.
  • 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Essential for thickening the sauce.
  • 2 cups Milk Provides a creamy base.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses a warm depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances the savory notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Sharpens the taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds gentle heat.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Creates the gooey texture.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Gives a nutty flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
For Coating and Frying
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs For achieving a crispy exterior.
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Provides extra crunch.
  • as needed Vegetable Oil (for spraying) Ensures a golden finish.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Method
  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions for 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Whisk in milk slowly, stirring until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Season sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  5. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and combined.
  6. Fold cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until well coated. Let sit for a moment to meld flavors.
  7. Spread mixture on a baking sheet to cool for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Once cooled, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls.
  9. Whisk egg in one bowl, and mix breadcrumbs and panko in another. Coat each ball first in egg, then in breadcrumbs.
  10. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly spray each ball with vegetable oil.
  11. Air fry the balls in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  12. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Cool the macaroni mixture fully before forming balls to keep them intact while cooking. Customize flavors with spices as desired.

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